Preparing Your Recovery Area Following Rhinoplasty

Washington DC area Rhinoplasty specialist, Dr. Shervin Naderi, MD, FACS is well known for his surgical expertise. Though he is able to greatly improve both the inner workings (septoplasty) and physical structure of the nose, it is the patient who also plays a role in the final rhinoplasty result. For this reason the healing process is very important.

The nose consists of a variety of tissues, which can create a complex healing process that typically spans one to two years. During the first two postoperative weeks, patients are asked not to touch or blow their noses, and sleep in an upright position. It is best to perform only low energy tasks, and to recover in a comfortable area.

Do All Chores Before the Surgery

Prior to surgery, it is important for rhinoplasty patients to clean their home, have plenty of groceries available, and fill necessary prescriptions. They should also set up their recovery area to ensure comfortable rest. The couch or bed should have plenty of extra pillows so a person can remain in propped up or sitting position for at least the first two weeks following rhinoplasty surgery.

Fill a Cooler with Necessary Supplies

A cooler filled with ice packs for the face as well as beverages can be placed next to the rest area. Some patients prefer frozen peas as they may remain colder for longer, and serve as a lightweight icing option, while others prefer cold packs. Typically, it is unadvisable to use ice unless it has been crushed and stored in a small, re-sealable bag. Rhinoplasty patients should avoid bumping the nose as this can cause additional trauma, so straws should be available as well. It may be more convenient to avoid using glasses during this time, and to instead sip drinks from their container.

Staying Entertained

To ensure patients do not perform any strenuous activities out of boredom, they should have things to keep them occupied. Reading, watching DVDs and surfing the internet are all viable options during the first week of recovery. In order to allow the nose to naturally drain of accumulated fluids, patients should remain propped up and avoid leaning forward. The resting area can be fitted with reading stands and other ways to accommodate an upright posture at all times.

Stay Away from the Mirror

Undoubtedly, rhinoplasty patients will be eager to see the changes in their nose, but before this structure takes on a great new shape, a lot of healing must take place. The doctor may have fractured the nasal bones (osteotomies), shaved down cartilage, used sutures to permanently fix tissues together, or performed a number of other changes. Though patients may be fitted with a nasal splint for the first week following rhinoplasty, the rest of the mid face can appear swollen and discolored.

Patients may feel discouraged with their post-surgical look, but this is totally normal when healing from a plastic surgery. Do not spend your time looking in mirrors, but do enjoy your time away from work and other obligations.